The pond mussel (Anodonta cygnea) is a freshwater mollusc living in outdoor ponds, garden pools and slow-flowing river areas. Thanks to its role as a natural filter, it actively contributes to water clarification and the biological balance of the pond.

Behaviour and care

The pond mussel lives buried in soft substrate, often half-buried. It continuously filters the water to feed on phytoplankton and organic particles. Very hardy, it prefers calm, clear and well-oxygenated water. It poses no risk to fish or plants and can be introduced into any natural pond.

For more information on pond water quality and maintenance, take a look at our guide (in French): Goldfish care guide.

Feeding

The pond mussel is a natural filter feeder: it feeds on microalgae, bacteria and suspended particles. No direct feeding is necessary if the pond is well balanced. In water poor in phytoplankton, a small dose of an enriching water conditioner can stimulate its filtering activity.

Water quality

• Ideal temperature: 10 – 25 °C
• pH: 6.5 – 8.0
• GH: 5 – 15 °dGH
• KH: 4 – 10 °KH
• Conductivity: 300 – 700 µS

The pond mussel helps stabilise water quality but does not tolerate stagnant, deoxygenated water. Avoid areas that are too muddy or confined.

Décor and environment

Place the mussel in a sandy or muddy bottom, in the calmer areas of the pond. It will naturally burrow into the substrate to filter the water. A high-performance filtration system and good oxygenation will support its efficiency and longevity.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

Pond mussels are excellent indicators of water quality. Introduced in small groups, they improve the clarity and stability of the pond. Avoid chemical products and antiparasitic treatments.
Discover our pond filtration solutions and our natural treatments that are safe for invertebrates.

Shipping & delivery of live fish

Fish and invertebrates are shipped with care in appropriate insulated packaging, ensuring their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the delivery department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium & Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.